Bambi Diamond Edition - Blu-ray Review

The classic and artistic story of Bambi comes to life in vibrant color in the Blu-ray Diamond Edition of Bambi. The edition contains numerous bonus features, and premieres the new Disney Second Screen app that allows viewers to interactively explore the movie on an iPad or laptop while watching it on the TV.

Although first released almost 70 years ago, Bambi is a coming-of-age, circle-of-life tale that still holds relevance toady. Artistically, Bambi is a masterpiece, and the rich detail in animation matches that of the storyline and the charming uniqueness of the characters. The story progresses as the season change, bringing in the entire gamut of emotion, from the heavy sorrow when Bambi's mother is shot, to the lighthearted and funny scenes of young animals experiencing the quirks of nature and the fun of friendship. All of this is tightly bound together musically to create a picture capable of leaving audiences twitterpated for the past 70 years and many more to come.

So, the question at hand, then, is how does the new Diamond Edition add to the original film? I continue to be impressed by the crisp, clean images and vibrant color in these remastered editions of the classic Disney films. We've come to expect them to look beautiful, and they do. But, the bonus features in these diamond editions really bring the film to life for audiences. The features are a gold mine for anyone interested in how animated films are made, and the history is fascinating as well, but the Bambi special features also give a wonderful sense of the artistry behind the film.

The special feature "Bambi: Inside Walt's Story Meetings," for example, is an actual reenactment of the story room conversations. Hearing the movie makers discuss their decisions as to the story, the dialogue, the lighting, the animation, and so on -- it's just very enlightening to experience the artistic process. The feature is one of my favorites ever, and I felt it was so great for my daughter to watch it right at a time when at school she is learning to create a solid story.

Disney Second Screen

Now, we could go on about the rest of the special features, but most important with this edition is to discuss the new Disney Second Screen. Disney Second Screen is an app that allows your iPad or laptop computer to interact with your Blu-ray movie. You download the app, which is as easy as can be, and then you put in the Disney Rewards code that comes in the Blu-ray packaging. You then start the app and the movie, and it automatically syncs up so that you can view artwork, flipbooks, puzzles, trivia and more on your iPad or laptop as the movie plays on TV.

The feature really isn't something I would probably use the first time watching a movie, because it would be distracting. But, the content adds some value to purchasing the Blu-ray over renting or watching on demand. You can learn so much about the film and the film making process as you explore the content on Second Screen. Also, the flipbooks and activities are great for kids. Each time watching the film can be a new experience. If your family really enjoys a film, or you have kids who are interested in the filmmaking process or in art or storytelling, this component makes the purchase worth it.

Disclosure: A review copy was provided by the publisher. For more information, please see our Ethics Policy.